Governor Newsom eases liquor licensing rules for businesses impacted by the LA Fires
Governor Gavin Newsom’s executive order provides urgent relief for Los Angeles businesses with Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) licenses affected by the fires.
Governor Gavin Newsom has issued an executive order providing urgent relief to businesses impacted by the devastating Los Angeles fires. The order, signed on January 29, 2025, streamlines processes for Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) licensees, allowing them to relocate, defer fees, and resume operations with fewer restrictions.
Have questions about your ABC-licensed business affected by fires?
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The Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control is addressing concerns of licensees following the recent wildfires in Los Angeles. ABC will continue to answer questions as communities strive to recover from the… pic.twitter.com/bArE4L4X8u
The measure is aimed at helping businesses recover quickly by removing certain licensing barriers that would otherwise hinder their ability to operate in new locations. It builds on the series of executive orders Newsom has issued to help Southern California rebuild following the devastation of January's wildfires.
Overview of the Executive Order
The executive order (N-15-25) was issued in response to the extensive damage caused by multiple wildfires in Los Angeles and Ventura Counties. With over 47,900 acres burned and more than 16,250 structures destroyed or damaged, businesses—especially those holding ABC licenses—have faced immense challenges in reopening.
To address these concerns, the order provides several key regulatory suspensions and modifications for businesses located in affected ZIP codes:
- Annual license renewal deadlines extended – ABC licensees with renewal dates between January 1, 2025, and July 1, 2025, will have an additional year to pay their fees.
- Waived penalties for late renewals – Businesses unable to pay renewal fees on time will not face penalties through January 7, 2026.
- Flexibility in relocation – Businesses forced to move can operate at a new location within Los Angeles County for up to 360 days without transferring their license.
- License transfer fee suspension – Licensees relocating permanently within Los Angeles County are exempt from normal transfer fees.
- Relaxed waiting periods – Certain waiting periods, including the 30-day delay on alcohol sales after a location change, are suspended to allow businesses to reopen faster.
These emergency measures are designed to ensure that affected businesses can continue serving their communities while recovering from fire-related losses.
Key Benefits for ABC Licensees
ABC licensees in designated ZIP codes (90041, 90049, 90265, 90272, 90290, 90402, 91001, 91024, 91103, 91104, 91107, 91367, and 93536) will experience the following benefits under the executive order:
- Temporary Relocation Without Delay
- Businesses can move their operations anywhere within Los Angeles County without needing an immediate formal license transfer.
- ABC’s usual 1,000-foot proximity rule is suspended for one year.
- Financial Relief
- Renewal fees for ABC licenses are deferred for a full year for affected businesses.
- Any penalty fees for late renewals are waived through January 7, 2026.
- Businesses that lost their license certificates due to fire damage can get replacements for free.
- Accelerated Licensing Processes
- The waiting period for Interim Operating Permits (IOPs) is waived, allowing businesses to begin operations quickly after relocation.
- The requirement that an IOP only be granted after a protest is filed is also suspended, expediting approvals.
These changes will help keep businesses afloat while ensuring the industry remains operational despite the challenges posed by the fires.
How Businesses Can Take Advantage of These Measures
Affected businesses should take the following steps to benefit from the executive order’s provisions:
- Confirm eligibility – Businesses must be located in one of the designated ZIP codes to qualify for fee deferrals, license relocations, and penalty waivers.
- Notify ABC of relocation – If moving to a temporary or permanent location within Los Angeles County, businesses must inform the Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control, but they do not need an immediate license transfer.
- Request fee deferments – Licensees with renewals due between January 1, 2025, and July 1, 2025, can request an extension without penalties.
- Apply for a replacement license (if needed) – Any business that lost its physical license certificate in the fires can obtain a replacement at no cost.
- Contact ABC for assistance – Agents and licensing professionals are actively helping impacted businesses and can provide additional guidance.
By taking these steps, ABC licensees can expedite their recovery process and resume normal business operations without unnecessary delays.
Contact Information for Affected Businesses
The Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) has established a dedicated helpline and email for businesses seeking assistance:
📞 Helpline: (916) 562-1243
📧 Email: lafire@abc.ca.gov
Additionally, ABC has published a Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) document to address common concerns, which can be accessed on the department’s official advisory page.
With state agencies working to support business recovery, Governor Newsom’s executive order ensures that ABC licensees have the flexibility and financial relief they need to rebuild. Businesses impacted by the fires are encouraged to take full advantage of these provisions to resume operations as soon as possible.
